Safe Deodorant Guide

Written by:

Maia James

07/18/2022

Updated: 02/26/2024

Looking for a different product guide? Browse them all HERE.

1. Schmidt’s / 2. Soapwalla / 3. FATCO / 4. Earth Mama / 5. Play Pits / 6. Acure

Let me start with the bad news: even the best natural deodorant isn’t going to work like Secret or any conventional antiperspirant you may be using now.

That said, the longer I’ve used natural deodorant, the better it works, and I actually seem to sweat less (a lot of you say this is the same for you).

My Top Pick for Best Natural Deodorant

Using Soapwalla has been nothing short of revelation for me. The application (with fingers) took a little getting used to, but this stuff really works.

Newest Natural Deodorant

We are thrilled to be selling Cleo + Coco’s line of non-toxic deodorant and skin care products.

The good news is that there are a ton of safe, natural deodorants to choose from. They come in sticks, jars, roll-ons, and sprays–and some are even plastic-free. And, yes, many of them actually work!

I now save my conventional, Bad Stuff antiperspirant for the occasional “emergency” situations when I’ll be nervous or hot and cannot afford to sweat at all. I remember when I was on The Dr. Oz Show talking about the dangers of phthalates in food, and all I could smell was the phthalate-laden fragrance of the Degree I was wearing!

The Best Natural Deodorants for Pregnant People

While all of the deodorants below are safe for to use during pregnancy, a few have been specially formulated with this life stage in mind. My top picks are healthybaby and Earth Mama.

What’s Wrong with Conventional Antiperspirant and Deodorant

In general, I’m concerned about deodorant and antiperspirant because of exposure. We tend to apply these products every day and leave them on for long periods of time.

Also, more of the product’s ingredients can penetrate the skin thanks to little nicks left behind from a razor. If you’re a person who shaves your armpits, you should be careful to choose the best natural deodorant.

The Best Refillable Deodorant

I’m a big fan of Beautycounter’s Clean Deo, a refillable deodorant that is great for even the most sensitive skin.

Beautycounter The Clean Deodorant | Gimme the Good Stuff

Here are the common ingredients that I’m most worried about in conventional deodorants or antiperspirants:

  • Aluminum is the reason that most people are worried about antiperspirants. Aluminum-based compounds prevent us from sweating by temporarily plugging our sweat glands. They may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, although evidence for both is contradictory.
  • Fragrance is the ingredient I’m usually most concerned about in deodorants. (This is the case with many other skincare products, too.) Fragrances generally contain hormone-disrupting phthalates, which you won’t see listed on the label. Even “phthalate-free” deodorants often contain synthetic fragrances, which have unknown phthalate replacements in them, some of which may be just as bad. Always opt for unscented products or those made with only 100% natural fragrances (essential oils).
  • Triclosan, the antibacterial agent that forms carcinogenic chloroform when it comes in contact with water that contains trace amounts of chlorine, is found in many deodorants.
  • Many deodorants contain parabens (preservatives that mimic estrogen) and artificial colors, which may be neurotoxins.

What’s Wrong with Natural Antiperspirants & Deodorants?

There is a lot of Sneaky Stuff being marketed as natural deodorant and antiperspirant. The most popular sneaky label is “aluminum-free,” because many of these deodorants still have bad stuff in them.

These are the sneaky ingredients that worry me most in natural deodorants:

  • Many “aluminum-free” deodorants, such as natural crystal deodorants, contain potassium alum. Potassium alum is natural, but it’s still a type of aluminum and therefore may carry the same risks. I do not recommend these products to women because of possible breast cancer links.
  • Even many natural deodorants contain propylene glycol, a softening agent linked to cancer and reproductive damage.
  • Concerning fragrances and preservatives are rampant among supposedly natural deodorants.

Best Natural Deodorant for Kids

Play Pits has saved me from having to buy my 12-year-old Old Spice–he’s at an age where everyone is going heavy with deodorants, and these are very scented. Fortunately, what lends them their appealing fragrance is all 100% essential oils.

The Best Natural Deodorant Ingredients

Body odor happens when sweat meets bacteria on the skin. The best natural deodorants combine a variety of ingredients to do one or all of the following:

  • Inhibit the growth of bacteria that makes sweat smell bad;
  • Absorb some of the moisture from sweat;
  • Reduce the amount of sweat by shrinking pores.

Good Stuff products do not act like conventional antiperspirants, which block sweat from leaving the body.

Most Affordable Natural Deodorant

At $2.65 an ounce, ThinkSport makes the most affordable of the best natural deodorants on our list.

Here are some effective ingredients that you’ll find in the best natural deodorant brands:

  • Alcohol (sometimes listed as ethanol) inhibits bacteria. Note that alcohol will increase the penetration of other ingredients in the product, so if you’re using deodorant with alcohol, make sure it’s Good Stuff!
  • Aloe soothes and conditions skin.
  • Arrowroot powder absorbs moisture.
  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) helps neutralize odors and absorbs moisture.
  • Coconut oil and other vegetable oils and butters (shea, cocoa, mango, etc.) moisturize and soothe irritated skin (hello, shaving). Coconut oil is also anti-microbial.
  • Cornstarch absorbs moisture.
  • Essential oils are added for natural fragrance and other properties (like antimicrobial tea tree, lichen, and rosemary).
  • Hops extract (yes, as in hops from brewing beer) is antimicrobial.
  • Kaolin clay (aka white cosmetic clay) absorbs moisture.
  • Vegetable glycerin and natural waxes (like beeswax and candelilla wax) bind ingredients together and are most common in stick deodorants.
  • Vitamin E (tocopherol) is an antioxidant, so it serves as a preservative.
  • Witch hazel and other astringent ingredients help shrink pores to reduce sweating.
  • Zinc oxide is anti-microbial. Just be sure that it’s non-nano zinc.

The Best of the Worst

If you really need to NOT sweat, Ban is the best of the Bad Stuff. The unscented variety of antiperspirant contains aluminum and the cyclopentasiloxane, but it’s much better than other Bad Stuff. Just save this for when you really need it, and try not to apply to freshly shaven armpits.

Pro Tips for Success with Natural Deodorant

I’ve learned a lot about using natural deodorants from my own trial-and-error and the experiences of my clients and readers. Here are some tips to help you avoid common pitfalls (pun intended!):

  • Time: If you’re making a big switch from conventional antiperspirants to natural deodorant, your body might need time to adjust before the natural stuff can be effective. Some even claim that your pits might have some detoxing to do.
  • Staining: A common complaint about natural deodorants made with oils like coconut is that they stain clothes. Avoid this by using only a small amount (read the label) and giving the product a couple of minutes to absorb before you put on your clothes.
  • Shaving: Some people also report that natural deodorants sting or cause irritation after shaving. An easy(ish) work-around is to shave at night and apply deodorant in the morning.
  • Baking soda: Many of the most popular natural deodorants are baking soda-based. Baking soda can irritate some people’s skin, at least at first. Luckily, there are lots of baking soda-free formulas among the Best Stuff.
  • Hormones: If you’ve given birth recently and/or are breastfeeding, you might be sweating more than usual—it’s not just your imagination, and you’re not alone! You might need to apply your deodorant more often. I’m a fan of freshening up a couple of times a day with baby wipes.
Deodorant

Are you overwhelmed with the length of the list of Best Stuff and Good Stuff below? If it’s helpful: my favorite cream is Soapwalla, spray is EO, and stick is the Earth Mama.

Best Stuff

Acure Charcoal Deodorant

Acure has changed the ingredients in some of their products that makes them less than Good Stuff–but the Acure Charcoal Deodorant features a super clean ingredients list. This formula includes magnesium and charcoal and is free of baking soda for sensitive skin.

Ingredients: zea mays (corn starch)*, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil*, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla wax)*, caprylic/ capric triglyceride, magnesium hydroxide, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter*, tocopherol, pelargonium graveolens (geranium) flower oil*, charcoal powder*. *certified organic ingredient

Cost per ounce: $4.75

Attitude Deodorant

Attitude Deodorant is EWG-verfied and its odor-fighting ingredients include arrowroot, baking soda, and corn starch.

Ingredients: Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Root Powder, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Sodium Bicarbonate, C10-18 Triglycerides, Magnesium Hydroxide, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Behenyl Behenate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Aqua / Water / Eau, Glycerin, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Leaf Extract, 2,6-Dimethyl-7-Octen-2-Ol*, Linalyl Acetate*, Methyldihydrojasmonate*, Oxacycloheptadec-10-En-2-One*, Triethyl Citrate*, *fragrance (Parfum). 

Cost per ounce: $4.66

BeautyCounter

Beautycounter’s The Clean Deo skips all toxins while also getting great reviews for its efficacy. It’s also EWG-verified and refillable. One hundred percent of testers said it was non-irritating, so this is a great option for sensitive skin.

Ingredients: Zea Mays (Corn) Starch*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Sodium Bicarbonate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax/Cire de candelilla, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Jojoba Esters, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax/Cire de carnauba, Cera Alba/Beeswax/Cire d’abeille, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Kernel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citral+, Citronellol+, Geraniol+, Limonene+, Linalool+

Cost per ounce: $9.47, plus $31 for the first stick which includes the case.

Dr. Clark’s Zinc Deo

Dr. Clark’s Zinc Deo is a roll-on deodorant that contains only two ingredients: water and zinc oxide. The zinc is non-nano and non-micronized. I haven’t personally tested this one for effectiveness, but I’m intrigued by the minimalist formula!

Ingredients: Deionized Water, Food Grade Zinc

Cost per ounce: $1.61

Earth Mama

Earth Mama is a great deodorant for anyone (it’s what I am using now), but it is formulated for pregnant and breastfeeding people, and free of aluminum, pthalates, and all hormone disruptors.

Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch*, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Magnesium Hydroxide, Cera Alba (Beeswax)*, Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Powder*, Tocopherol, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil* *Organic CONTAINS: Tree Nut (Coconut)

Cost per ounce: $3.66

Each & Every

Each & Every is EWG-verified, and contains only natural, safe ingredients in their many formulas.

Ingredients: caprylic/capric triglyceride, tapioca starch, ozokerite, magnesium hydroxide, juniperus virginiana oil, magnesium carbonate, piroctone olamine, citrus lemon (lemon) peeol oil, citrus aurantifolia (lime) il, juniperus communis fruite oil, menthe piperita (peppermint) oil

Cost per ounce: $6.12

EO Organic Deodorant 

EO Organic Deodorant is a simple alcohol-based spray formula scented only with pure essential oils.

Ingredients: Organic Ethanol, Purified Water, EO® Essential Oil Blend [Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Organic Lavandula Hybrida Oil]

Cost per ounce: $1.50

Fat and the Moon

Fat and the Moon makes a deodorant cream that I haven’t tried, but that looks similar in ingredients to Soapwalla.

Ingredients: Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera)*, Baking Soda, Arrowroot Powder (Maranta arundinacea)*, Beeswax (Cera alba), Essential Oils of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)*, Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)*, Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)*, Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)* & Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)*

Cost per ounce: $11.00

Fatco

FATCO’s Stank Stop® Natural Deodorant combines the antibacterial properties of Organic Coconut Oil with the odor-neutralizing power of Aluminum-Free Baking Soda to create this all-natural, Paleo-certified deodorant. 

Ingredients: Coconut Oil*, Arrowroot Powder*, Shea Butter*, Tallow from Grass-fed Cows, Baking Soda, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, Beeswax, Lavender Essential Oil, Clary Sage Essential oil. *Denotes An Organic Ingredient.

Cost per ounce $10.50

Green Tidings

Green Tidings is highly ranked on Amazon, so lots of you have tried it, though I haven’t. One of my best friends ordered it and wasn’t impressed: “It kept the stink at bay, but was pretty messy to apply.”

Ingredients: Virgin Coconut Oil, Shea Butter (Unrefined, Fair Trade), Magnesium Oil, Manuhot Esculenta (Tapioca) Starch, Aluminum-Free Baking Soda (sodium bicarbonate), Wildcrafted Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia Cerifera).

Cost per ounce: $5.92

Healthybaby

Healthynest is plastic-free, EWG-verified, and formulated specifically for pregnant and nursing people. It contains pre-and probiotics, organic tapioca starch, and manuka honey, and comes in a pleasant calming scent.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride*, Tapioca Starch*, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Magnesium Hydroxide, Zinc Ricinoleate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Honey (Mel), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Vetiveria Zizanoides (Vetiver) Root Oil*, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Lactobacillus, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Maltodextrin, Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice.

Cost per ounce: $6.40

Noniko

Noniko makes a refillable, plastic-free deodorant stick that contains no concerning ingredients. The deodorant is produced in the United States, although the stainless steel container is manufactured in China.

Ingredients: Coconut (Cocos Nucifera) Oil*, Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate), Arrowroot (Maranta Arundinacea) Powder*, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Bergamot (Citrus Bergamia) Essential Oil, Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi) Essential Oil, Noni Fruit (Morinda Citrifolia) Seed Oil, Vitamin E (Tocopherol). 

Cost per ounce: $8.70, plus $40 for the first order, which includes the container.

Peach

Peach is the only plastic-free, refillable deodorant that has EWG verification. It contains only natural essentials oils for fragrance, and claims to provide 48 hours of odor protection.

Ingredients: Caprylic/capric triglyceride, manihot esculenta (arrowroot) powder,* cocos nucifera (coconut) oil,* magnesium hydroxide, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed wax, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, natural fragrance,** simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, triethyl citrate, behenyl alcohol, polyglyceryl-3 stearate, glycine soja (soybean) oil, jojoba esters, zinc ricinoleate, aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf extract, lactobacillus ferment, tocopherol, xylityl sesquicaprylate, anhydroxylitol, maltodextrin. *Organic **Fragranced with essential oils and plant extracts Fragrance ingredients: Triethyl citrate, phenethyl alcohol, heliotropine, linalyl acetate, alpha ionone, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-ol, vanillin, gamma octalactone, beta ionone, anisaldehyde, eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, camphor, benzyl acetate, isoamyl phenyl acetate, gamma-nonalactone, dodecahydro-tetramethyl naphthofuran, vetiveria zizanoides root oil, zinc ricinoleate, fusanus spicatus (sandalwood) oil, acetoin, geranyl acetate, pentanedione, benzyl acetate Packaging: 100% aluminum.

Cost per ounce: $6.74, plus $20 for the first stick which includes the case.

Pretty Frank

Pretty Frank (formerly Primal Pit Paste) contains only safe ingredients and comes in a tub that you apply with fingers or a standard stick formula.

Ingredients: Organic Arrowroot Powder, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Magnesium Hydroxide, Organic Coconut Oil, Brassica Alcohol, Organic Shea Butter, Candelilla Wax, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E 

Cost per ounce: $5.55

Purelygreat

Purelygreat deodorant creams are EWG-verified, and contain only a handful of natural ingredients. I haven’t tested any of them so I cannot promise that they work.

Ingredients: (natural soda) sodium Bicarbonate U.S.P., vegetable glycerin, corn starch (Non-GMO), Essential oils: (grapefruit) citrus paradisi oil, (orange) citrus sinensis oil, (cypress) cupressus sempervirens oil, (coriander) coriandrum sativum oil, (geranium) pelargonium graveolens oil, (lime) citrus aurantifolia oil, limonene*, linalool*, citronellol*, geraniol* *a natural component of essential oils

Cost per ounce: $6.81

Primally Pure Deodorant

Primally Pure Deodorant is a unique formula because it contains beef tallow–along with other natural ingredients like baking soda, kaolin clay, and zinc oxide.

Ingredients: Coconut Oil*, Arrowroot Powder*, Tallow from Grass-Fed Cows*, Baking Soda, Beeswax*, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, Kaolin Clay, Essential Oils of Geranium* and Blue Tansy*, Rosemary Extract*, Non-Gmo Vitamin E

Cost per ounce: $8.80 to $9.41, depending on which size you choose. Use code GIMMETHEGOODSTUF10 for 10% off

Schmidt’s Deodorant

About ten years ago, a friend brought over a tub of Schmidt’s Deodorant for me to check out after she bought it at Urban Outfitters. I was surprised by the legitimately clean ingredients, as Urban Outfitters is FULL of Sneaky products well-packaged to look natural. Schmidt’s is a happy exception!

Ingredients: Magnesium Hydroxide, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Powder, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Fractionated Coconut Oil), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E, Sunflower Derived).

Cost per ounce $3.38

Real Purity

Real Purity is another brand that several readers asked about—you say you use it and like it, so good news: I’d call it Best Stuff! They even removed the potassium sorbate since the last time we updated this guide two years ago.

Ingredients: Purified Aqua (Water), Kosher Vegetable Glycerin (Palm), Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cleavers Extract, Magnesium Stearate, Potassium Sorbate (Potassium), Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Pelargonium Roseum Asperum (Geranium) Essential Oil, Salvia Lavandulaefolia (Sage) Essential Oil, Aniba Parviflora (Rosewood) Essential Oil, Olea Europaea (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), Prunus Armeniacae (Apricot) Kernel Oil.

Cost per ounce $6.17

Sam’s Natural

Sam’s Natural is yet another brand that a bunch of you asked about. I haven’t tried it, but with ingredients that include only things like baking soda, shea butter, and a variety of essential oils, it qualifies as Best Stuff.

Ingredients: Sodium bicarbonate, coconut oil, candelilla wax, arrowroot powder, MCT oil, pumpkinseed oil, shea butter, rosemary leaf extract, carrot seed essential oil, tea tree essential oil, aloe vera leaf extract, vitamin e, aspen bark extract, mandarin essential oil.

Cost per ounce $3.32

Soapwalla

Soapwalla has quickly developed a cult following, and is my go-to and current favorite. At first it’s a little odd to apply deodorant with your fingers, but I got used to it quickly. I love that Soapwalla is a small operation. They’re located near my home in Brooklyn, so I was able to go meet Rachel (the owner), pick up the products, and see their small-scale production. Soapwalla now offers a sensitive skin formula without baking soda.

Ingredients: (*: certified organic, +: food-grade) Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Oil*; Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil*; Rosehip Seed Oil*; Butyrospermun parkii (Shea) Butter; Corn Starch*+; Sodium Bicarbonate+; Kaolin Clay; Vegan Kosher Glycerin*+; a custom blend of essential oils, including: Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender)*; Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree)*; Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange); Mentha Piperita (Peppermint)*; Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergaptene-free Bergamot)*; Non-GMO Soy lecithin*+; Non-GMO Vitamin E*+.

Cost per ounce $9.00

ThinkSport

ThinkSport makes an original stick deodorant as well as a magnesium blend–both of these are really effective, completely safe, and EWG-verified.

Ingredients: CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, ZEA MAYS (CORN STARCH)*, EUPHORBIA CERIFERA (CANDELILLA) WAX, MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL* LAURYL LAURATE, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER*, TRIETHYL CITRATE, JOJOBA ESTERS, LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) OIL, TOCOPHEROL, CITRONELLOL, PHENETHYL ALCOHOL, CITRIC ACID 
*CERTIFIED ORGANIC INGREDIENT(S)

Cost per ounce: $2.63

Wellnesse Mineral Deodorant

Wellnesse Mineral Deodorant has a squeaky clean ingredients list, including the baking soda and aloe. It gets great reviews from users, and after Wellenesse sent me a sample, I see why! This is one of the best natural deodorants I’ve tried.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Stearyl Alcohol, Tapioca Starch, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Bicarbonate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Jojoba Esters, Triethyl Citrate, Zinc Ricinoleate, Bisabolol, Bursera Graveolens Wood Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tocopherol

Cost per ounce: $5.09

Good Stuff

Green Beaver

I’m pleased to move Green Beaver from Sneaky to Good Stuff, since they’ve removed most of the yucky ingredients from their formulations. I am not calling this one Best Stuff because it contains conditioning agent glyceryl laurate which is somewhat questionable.

Ingredients: Glycerin, aqua, sodium stearate, citrus grandis (grapefruit) seed extract, steareth-100, usnea barbata (lichen) extract, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, chamomilla rectita (matricaria) flower extract, melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil, sodium bicarbonate, ethylhexylglycerin, stearyl alcohol, bisabolol.

Cost per ounce: $4.94

Lafes Deodorant

Lafes Deodorant is is glycerin-based so it goes on clear. Lafe’s old formula contained potassium alum, but this new one gets our thumbs up. The only reason it’s in Good Stuff rather than Best Stuff is because of the grapefruit seed extract, which comes with some contamination concerns.

Ingredients: Propanediol, Glycerin, Water, Sodium Stearate, Zinc Ricinoleate, Silica, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Sucrose Cocoate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract*, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Extract*, Citrus Reticulata (Mandarin Orange), Citrus Arantium Sub. Bergamia (Bergamot), Jasmin Grandiflorum (Jasmine) , Vetiveria Zizanoid (Vetiver), Allantoin

Cost per ounce: $3.60

Little Seed

Little Seed is the brand you guys ask about all the time, and although EWG doesn’t like a few of the essential oils in these blends, I consider this a safe option.

Ingredients: organic arrowroot powder*,food grade magnesium hydroxide,organic coconut oil*, organic jojoba oil*,beeswax, organic vegetable glycerine*(non-gmo & kosher) organic geranium essential oil*,organic rosemary essential oil*,organic spearmint essential oil*activated charcoal powder*indicates a certified organic ingredient:

Cost per ounce: $6.00

LoveFresh

LoveFresh is simple and contains only natural ingredients like coconut oil and baking soda. I am keeping LoveFresh in Good Stuff rather than Best Stuff only because they do not disclose the details of their essential oil blend.

Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Maranta Arundincea Root (Arrowroot Powder), Natural Beeswax, Sodium Bicarbonate (Non-Aluminum Baking Soda), Kaolin Clay, Fractionated Coconut Oil, Zinc Oxide, Essential Oil.

Cost per ounce: $6.49

Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard produces a line of simple spray deodorants made with natural ingredients. Some of the essential oils in their blends score poorly on EWG, which is why we’ve put them in Good Stuff rather than Best Stuff.

Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Aqua/Water, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Glycerin, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil*, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil*, Sodium Usnate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder*,Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Limonene, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate, Farnesol, Eugenol.

Cost per ounce: $3.99

Poofy’s

Poofy’s line of Max Deo deodorants are free of all the Bad Stuff, and many of my readers say they are super effective. Like many Poofy products, these deodorants do contain the non-specific “natural flavors,” but it’s the last ingredient, so it doesn’t concern me. (But that’s why I am keeping them in Good Stuff rather than Best Stuff.) Poofy even makes a deodorant for kids!

Ingredients: Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Beeswax, Organic Unrefined Shea Butter, Organic Cocoa Butter, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, Organic Lavender Essential Oil, Organic Roman Chamomile Essential Oil.

Cost per ounce $5.66

Routine

Routine deodorants smell incredible, and once you get used to applying them with your fingertips, it won’t feel like a compromise. This brand didn’t make it to Best Stuff because of the undisclosed “flavor” and overall a longer list of ingredients.

Ingredients: cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, magnesium hydroxide, kaolin, zea mays (corn) starch, maranta arundinacea (arrowroot), sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), cera alba (beeswax), butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, calendula officinalis (marigold) infused olea europaea (olive) oil, tocopherol (vitamin e), theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter, cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate, brassica glycerides, aroma: flavor oil (organic lemon, grapefruit, citrus), citrus aurantium bergamia (bergamot) fruit oil, citrus sinensis (sweet orange) oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil, vanilla planifolia fruit oil, myristica fragrans (nutmeg) oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, limonene*, linalool*. *Naturally occurring in essential oil.

Cost per ounce $3.40

Ursa Major

Ursa Major is a popular brand that’s basically safe–the only ingredient I don’t love here is sodium benzoate, which is why I am keeping this one in Good Stuff rather than Best Stuff.

Ingredients: Aloe vera (aloe barbadensis) leaf juice*, propanediol, sodium stearate, tapioca starch, silica, microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose gum, shea (butyrosperum parkii) butter (community trade), sodium bicarbonate, kaolin (clay), tocopheryl acetate, glyceryl caprylate, glyceryl undecylenate, glycerin, royal jelly extract, hops (humulus lupulus) extract, lemon (citrus medica limonum) peel extract, ginseng (panax quinquefolium) root extract, calendula officinalis flower extract, matricaria (chamomilla recutita) flower extract, saccharomyces ferment, rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) leaf oil, peppermint (mentha piperita) oil, grapefruit (citrus grandis) peel oil, eucalyptus (eucalyptus globulus) leaf oil

Cost per ounce $6.92

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Okay Stuff

Dr. Hauschka

Dr. Hauschka deodorants are natural, but some of the essential oils they use are questionable. I would feel fine using this deodorant, but it doesn’t quite qualify as Good Stuff.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Manihot Utilissima (Tapioca) Starch, Triethyl Citrate, Glycerin, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Linalool*, Limonene*, Geraniol*, Citral*, Citronellol*, Coumarin*, Sodium Silicate, Sucrose Laurate, Algin, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum. *component of natural essential oils

Cost per ounce $14.12

BUY ON amazon Buy from Thrive Market

Lavanila

A lot of you have asked about Lavanila. While many of the ingredients are “naturally-derived” rather than truly natural, nothing in these deodorants scores poorly on EWG’s hazard scale, so I call this Okay Stuff. Just don’t confuse it with Lanvilin, which is Sneaky (see below).

Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis leaf juice (Aloe juice, water/aqua), Propanediol (Corn derived), Zea mays (Corn) starch, Sodium stearate (Coconut derived), Silica, Carrageenan (Seaweed derived), Stearyl behenate (Coconut derived), Citrus medica limonum (Lemon peel oil), Inulin (Artichoke derived), Saccharomyces ferment, Alpha-Glucan oligosaccharide (Sugar derived), Yeast beta glucan, Lonicera caprifolium (Honeysuckle) flower extract, Usnea barbata (Lichen) extract, Valeriana officinalis root extract (Valerian), Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal) extract, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree) flower/leaf/stem extract, Lycium barbarum fruit extract (Goji berry), Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla) oil, Botanical fragrance blend

Cost per ounce $5.50

Piperwai

Piperwai was featured on Shark Tank and got a lot of attention. Some of you love it; others not so much. The only thing I don’t love is that it contains a proprietary blend of essential oils. I would rather know exactly what’s in any product I’m using.

Ingredients: Tapioca Starch, Coconut Oil, Distilled Water, Shea Butter Virgin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Rosewater, Witch Hazel USP, Cocoa Butter, D Alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Jojoba Oil, Honeysuckle Extract, Magnesium Hydroxide, Eucalyptus Radiata (Eucalyptus) Leaf/Stem Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Leaf Oil, Activated Charcoal, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil.

Cost per ounce $6.50

BUY ON amazon Buy from Thrive Market

Weleda

Weleda deodorants contain mostly natural ingredients–EWG just doesn’t like that among these are a few that are potential immunotoxins, including geraniol, linalool, limonene, and coumarin. It also contains benzyl salicylate.

Ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Caproyl, Lauroyl Lactylate Rosa Damascena Extract, Wild Rose Leaf Extract, Licorice Root, Glycerin, Fragrance, Limonene, Linalool , Citronellol, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Citral, Eugenol, Farnesol

Cost per ounce $5.59

Bad Stuff

All the obvious ones–Secret, Sure, Soft & Dri, Mitchum, Suave, Degree, etc.–are bad, mostly because of the phthalates/synthetic fragrance they invariably contain.

Butane in aerosol versions is another problem with conventional deodorants, plus a variety of PEG chemicals (organ system toxicants), BHT, talc, and other really Bad Stuff.

As I mentioned above, if you really need a conventional antiperspirant or deodorant, the unscented Ban is your best option.

Sneaky Stuff

Arm & Hammer Natural Deodorant contains triclosan, propylene glycol, and synthetic fragrance. This is the Sneakiest of the Sneaky!

Bravo Sierra deodorant contains propylene glycol as it’s first ingredient. Enough said!

I used to love Crystal Essence deodorant and used it for years, but it turns out that it’s so effective because it contains potassium alum. The same is true of those crystal deodorants (as in, the ones that are just an actual rock.)

Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant contains DHT and dipropylene glycol, in addition to synthetic fragrance.

Every Man Jack deodorants are “naturally derived,” but contain sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, and a bunch of other chemicals on my Bad/Sneaky Stuff list.

I long considered Herbal Magic to be Good Stuff, but they recently changed their formula, and the fragrance is now synthetic. However, their unscented deodorant is still Good Stuff.

Herban Cowboy deodorants contain synthetic fragrance. Enough said.

Jason Natural deodorants contain synthetic fragrance, citral, eugenol, linalool, limonene, and other concerning ingredients.

Kopari is advertised as “coconut deodorant,” and while it does contain coconut oil, it also contains propylene glycol as well as synthetic fragrance.

Kiss My Face deodorants contain propylene glycol, synthetic fragrance, and—in the case of their roll-on deodorants—potassium alum.

Lanvilin deodorants are free of phthalates, but the fragrance is not natural, so I am suspicious of the undisclosed chemicals likely lurking! (Note: Don’t confuse this products with Lavanila, which is Okay Stuff.)

Lume a lot of synthetics ingredients, and some other Bad Stuff, such as phenoxyethanol, PEG chemicals, and polysorbate 60. Note that unscented Lume is the best of the bunch; it scores only a 2 from EWG.

MegaBabe calls itself a “clean deodorant,” but depending on the formula you’ll find propylene glycol, sodium benzoate, and/or fragrance.

Malin & Goetz works well and has the nicest packaging of any deodorant I’ve seen. Unfortunately, it’s got a bunch of problematic ingredients, including phenoxyethanol and propylene glycol.

Native Deodorant is probably the one we are are asked about most, and I know you guys are big fans. Although we previously considered this Good Stuff, Native is now using “a proprietary blend of oils” for their fragrance blend. They specify that they are phthalate-free, but unless they disclose specific oils–and most importantly clarify that only essential oils are used–we will keep Native Deodorant listed as Sneaky Stuff. And for those of you who have asked: the reason that EWG’s Skin Deep gives Native a score of just 1 is because they have an incorrect ingredients list, which doesn’t include “fragrance.”

Naturally Fresh crystal deodorant contains only two ingredients, but both are types of “alum” and should therefore be avoided.

Tisserand does contain tea tree oil and other natural ingredients, but it’s also got loads of synthetics, including benzyl alcohol and methylchloroisothiazolinone.

Maia, Founder & CEO

Note: This article contains affiliate links or sponsored content, which means that if you make a purchase, we may earn a commission. We only recommend products that meet our strict standards for non-toxicity and that we use (or want to use!) ourselves. Thank you so much for supporting the brands that make Good Stuff! 

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Leave a Reply

  1. Cynthia Avatar
    Cynthia

    Hi! I was wondering if you have thoughts on Honestly pHresh? Thanks for all your guides!

  2. AW Avatar
    AW

    Missing from this list is Green Goo. They are the only deodorant in the natural market, that I have personally found to work. Absolutely no smell after a whole day. And as near as I can tell no bad or sneaky ingredients. (I am just a really happy customer who spent years looking for a natural product that worked.)

    1. Maia james Avatar
      Maia james

      Yes, you’re right! Green Goo is definitely #goodstudd

  3. AS Avatar
    AS

    How about Nine Naturals’ unscented deodorant?

  4. Kat Avatar

    My favorite is Nfuse lavender scent. They have other scents but this is my personal favorite.

    FULL INGREDIENTS Water, magnesium hydroxide, propanediol, magnesium chloride, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) flower water, glycerin (and) glycine soja (soybean) seed extract, heptyl undecylenate, sodium bicarbonate, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, acacia senegal gum, salvia sclarea (clary sage) oil, xanthan gum, citrus bergamia (bergamot) oil, cymbopogon flexuosus (lemongrass) oil, matricaria recutita (chamomile) flower extract, menthol

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      looks like Good Stuff:)

  5. Katie Barnes Avatar
    Katie Barnes

    Hey Maia, I’ve been using the Native lavender and rose scent specifically because the fragrance is derived from rose and lavender oils, as listed on the back of the deodorant. The other Native scents all list synthetic fragrances. Any thoughts on whether the lavender rose scent could be an exception for Native?

  6. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Hi there…..I was just wondering your thoughts on Alaffia deodorant and Andalou Naturals Deodorant, Cannacell? Plus, we use Pretty Frank and I noticed you only posted the unscented as okay — are the scented ones good to use as well? Thank you for your time 🙂

  7. Jill Avatar
    Jill

    I have been using the Rose scented MagSol deodorant for a while now. I have reactions to various products (including deodorants) and this one doesn’t bother me at all. I love the smell and it lasts all day! It feels a little sticky when you first put it on, but that goes away within seconds. I’d love to see what your thoughts are on this brand!

  8. Andi Avatar
    Andi

    Thanks for including Each & Every on the list! My husband and I have been using this deodorant for several years. Even without baking soda, it works through my husband’s toughest workouts. Their Discovery pack is perfect for both travel and to help select a favorite scent.

  9. S Avatar
    S

    What about smarty pits?

  10. Jenn Avatar
    Jenn

    Is it only the Fragrance Free version of Schmidt’s that is considered the Best Stuff? Thank you!

    1. Maia Avatar
      Maia

      No! Any of the Schmidt’s are Best Stuff:)

  11. LMB Avatar
    LMB

    Hi, can you clarify which Acure had the “good stuff”? The picture at the top shows the regular deodorant but the write-up shows the charcoal based.
    Thank you for your work.

    1. Maia Avatar
      Maia

      All Acure deodorant is Best Stuff! Sorry for the confusion.

  12. S Avatar
    S

    Curious about Drunk Elephant mandelic acid deo, biossance squalane deo, necesaire deo, and pure pitz

    1. Maia Avatar
      Maia

      Adding to the list for an update:)

  13. ilyse betancourt Avatar
    ilyse betancourt

    How about Primally Pure?

  14. Andi Avatar
    Andi

    How about Little Seed Farm and Each and Every? I’ve used both of them with great success. My husband loves Each and Every’s cedar and spruce scents.

  15. Eve Avatar
    Eve

    Here’s a review from an Amazon customer on the Lafe’s Active Deodorant:

    “This deodorant does not list sodio (sodium?) bicarbonate as an ingredient on the packaging, but does contain sodium stearate.”

    Can you please verify if this is accurate and change it, if it is? My daughter and I are looking for safe deodorant and don’t want to purchase this if it isn’t safe.
    Thank you!

  16. Tierra Avatar
    Tierra

    Have you heard of Pretty Frank? I’m curious to learn of your opinion on their ingredients. They look totally straight forward to me.

  17. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Have you heard of Megababe deodorant? I’d love for you to add it to your list with your review!

  18. Jenn Avatar
    Jenn

    I would add Pit Liquor. I struggled to find a natural deodorant that worked and accidentally found this one a few years ago when I met the owners in Boulder doing a live promo for their Kickstarter.

    1. Biodynamic Barb Avatar
      Biodynamic Barb

      I like Pit Liquor, too! (1) It works. (2) It’s sold in refillable glass bottles which can be returned. I bought one roll-on bottle, and one large refill bottle which I return to be refilled once a year.

      All the other ‘good stuff’ listed here comes in plastic containers that will end up in a landfill which makes them unacceptable to me.

  19. Delia Arriola Avatar
    Delia Arriola

    Would you be able to tell me if this deodorant is safe? Bravo Sierra, here are the ingredients.

    Propylene Glycol (BIOBASED), Propanediol, Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Stearate, Glycerin, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate (ORGANIC), Caprylyl/Capryl Gucoside, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer, Tapioca Starch, Diatomaceous Earth, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panax Quinquefolius Root Extract, Plankton Extract, Lecithin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sucrose, Sodium Surfactin, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid

  20. Amanda Avatar
    Amanda

    Thank you so much for this guide! I am blown away by some of the things that are truly sneaky. Super appreciate your diligence and integrity.

    I’m currently using Primally Pure Deodorant(Blue Tansy) and wondered your thoughts on this brand.

    Thank you again and will definitely be sharing and trying out your picks from your guides. ?

  21. Dolly Avatar
    Dolly

    I have been using Neal’s Yard Remedies deodorant. It’s an all natural product . Have you heard of the company? It’s a roll on. I really like it. What are your thoughts on it?

  22. sara Avatar
    sara

    “DeodoMom” is an amazingly simple (actually safe enough to eat!) and effective deodorant we’ve been using for the last 8 years, and despite all the other brands that have become available in more recent years, we remain customers for life.
    From amazon’s storefront:
    NO ALUMINUM or aluminum compounds (potassium alum, zirconium alum).
    SUITABLE FOR SENSITIVE SKINS and will not sting your underarms even right after shaving . Contains no irritating ingredients such as dyes, parabens, alcohol, propylene glycol, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), beeswax. essential oils, palm oil, talc, triclosan, nanoparticle, gluten, BPA, or GMO.
    COMPLETELY UNSCENTED with zero fragrance. 100% VEGAN – no animal testing or animal byproducts.
    LASTS ALL DAY with only 1 application and 1 bottle is good for 3 months of typical use.

  23. Laura Doherty Avatar

    Firstly, thank you, I love your product guides. I relied upon your research and knowledge to get me through all my product selections during my first pregnancy (and now beyond). So, I was wondering if I could get your opinion on the deodorant I currently use: Alvera Aloe & Almonds All Natural Roll-On Deodorant. I know it will lose points for not being organic, but I’m hoping there’s not too much else sinister within? P.S. I live in Florida, and I regularly use this deodorant in 90 degree heat and 90 percent humidity, and am pretty happy with its performance.

  24. Carol Avatar
    Carol

    Would the Native unscented make your Good Stuff list since it won’t have the proprietary blend of essential oils?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes, that one is fine:)

  25. kathy Avatar
    kathy

    which product do you recommend for me?
    i know that people who have body odor is because their sweat contain certain fatty acids (which is coded into their genes), and the bacteria on their skin react with those fatty acids and produces the odor. and most deodorants work by making you not sweat and have some anti-bacterial effect. well i don’t have any body odor, but i still use a deodorant for its antiperspirant properties, namely Secret, because my armpits sweat the most, and it makes unsightful wet patches on my clothes, and sometime if i forget to wash the clothes within the few following days, it will leave ugly sweat stains on my clothes. so what’s a product that’s safe to use and is an antiperspirant with lasting effect?

  26. James Avatar
    James

    I too have not worn deodorant in around 10 years. However, I recently moved to the southeast and have noticed on warm days in the “winter” that I tend to sweat excessively unlike when I lived up north. I will try some of these deodorants this spring and summer, but I’m wondering if you have any suggestions on men’s deodorant since I am a man. THANKS!

    1. Laura Doherty Avatar

      Amendment to my previous comment/question: I just found a california prop. 65 warning on the Amazon listing for the deodorant I am using by Alvera. Eeeek! Maybe I’ve been using sneaky/bad stuff all along?

  27. DANIELLE Avatar
    DANIELLE

    I’d been using Arm & Hammer and tried the Poofy Organics brand and it BURNED. The website says it could be from the baking soda, but my last brand also had baking soda and I’ve never had a reaction. I also tried to reach out to Poofy and no luck :/

    It also burned my husband, and neither one of us has ever had a reaction to anything. Sad that I wasted $12 and I don’t know what caused that so I’m discouraged knowing that this will be a costly journey until I find a good one.

  28. Sarah Avatar
    Sarah

    Hello! And thank you, as always, for such fantastic info. I wanted to mention my new fave brand/scent: Humble Deodorant in Palo Santo, Frankincense, Vanilla scent. It smells amazing (and I usually hate/feel sensitive to the way everything smells). It has only about 5 ingredients, most listed as organic (corn starch, fraccionated coconut oil, EOs, baking soda, beeswax.. and I just saw that they have vegan and no-baking soda options as well.
    When I did a huge body/home/life cleanse about a decade ago, I found it was easier to just shower and eat well than to find a worthwhile natural deodorant, and I usually felt secure with my decision to sometimes stink in the name of health, but then a couple of years ago, I went to a funeral and smelled awful when hugging friends… so I went on a mission to find a usable deodorant to avoid a situation like that happening again. I eventually stumbled on this scent by Humble, and I’ve been hooked since then. I’ve tried their unscented version, too, and it’s great. (It doesn’t have a strong coconut oil smell like so many other “unscented” natural deodorants I’ve tried.) I really highly recommend them! (And if you don’t object to shopping somewhere like TJMaxx or Marshalls, you can often find these deodorants there at a decent discount.) Thanks again, Maia and team, for the great info!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Thanks so much for the kind words, and for putting Humble on our radar! It looks like Good Stuff.

      1. Ines Avatar
        Ines

        I’ve been using Schmidts for a while but it stains my clothes, so I really need an alternative. Has someone used it and is now happy with another brand which also has good results and does not leave stains? Thank you !

        1. Ann S. Avatar
          Ann S.

          Yes I have used Schmidts and didn’t like the texture, though it does work otherwise — I switched to Humble — rose scent — and have been very happy with it.

  29. Stacey S. Guillory Avatar
    Stacey S. Guillory

    I also would love to know your thoughts about Lume? Thanks!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I’m not a fan of Lume. I like that they don’t use synthetic fragrances, but they do use a ton of synthetics and some others I don’t like, such as phenoxyethanol, PEG chemicals, and Polysorbate 60.

      1. Stacey Guillory Avatar
        Stacey Guillory

        Thank you Maia!! So glad I checked with you. I’ve been using Lyme but will now stop & try several of the “Good Stuff” items to find a replacement. You’re a gem!!

  30. Jessica J. Avatar
    Jessica J.

    Have you heard of or looked into Lume deodorant? Curious of your thoughts and if the ingredients are considered “Good stuff”. Thanks!

    https://lumedeodorant.com/pages/ingredients

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I’m not a fan of Lume. I like that they don’t use synthetic fragrances, but they do use a ton of synthetics and some others I don’t like, such as phenoxyethanol, PEG chemicals, and Polysorbate 60.

      1. Jessica Johnson Avatar
        Jessica Johnson

        Thank you! I’ve been curious but wasn’t sure of all the ingredients.

  31. Christina Marroquin Avatar
    Christina Marroquin

    https://primallypure.com/ Please check out Primally Pure deodorants and let me know what you think please.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Looks like Good Stuff!

  32. Monica P. Avatar
    Monica P.

    Any thoughts on Kopari? It’s getting a lot of publicity lately and I’m wondering if it’s really good or just looks good.

    1. Clara P. Avatar
      Clara P.

      I would also like to know about Kopari. They claim to be a natural deodorant but it has a very long list of ingredients.
      I tried it and it is working really well, but I am not sure if it might be too good to be true.

  33. Ariel W. Avatar
    Ariel W.

    I love and use Native deodorant on a daily basis. The scent (especially the coconut/vanilla and the lavender) last all day long as well as after a rigorous cardio work out! But, if you are wearing light colored shirt/blouse/dress – it WILL stain your clothes…it turned mine a gross yellow, almost chartreuse color. As soon as I could I would spray the stain with Shout stain remover – a LOT of spray – and washed the stained clothing immediately and each time the stain would completely disappear. I tried 7th Generation stain remover spray once on these stains and it only slightly reduced the stain but it was Shout that got rid of them completely.

  34. kitty Avatar
    kitty

    How about Alaffia, Dessert Essence, and Now Foods deodorants sold on iHerb?
    http://www.iherb.com/?rcode=NET7216

  35. Nathan Avatar
    Nathan

    I’ve been using the crystal deodorants (the actual rock one) for a few years now because its the only deodorant I have found that I can stand. anything more then a slight fragrance is something I find unpleasant but the feel is the main problem. I have ocd (think the handwashing) and the gritty/oily/slick residue from deodorants drives me up the wall. I’m abit disappointed that it wasn’t as good a stuff I was thinking and was wondering if anyone could suggest a good alternative with minimal tactile impression? (for the record I had tried a scent free crystal roll-on and it didn’t bother me but I didn’t find it effective either)

  36. Melody Zimmerman Avatar

    Charcoal deodorant is an all-natural way to stay smelling fresh and dry! The activated charcoal neutralizes odor and absorbs moisture, and creates an environment where bacteria cannot thrive, leaving your sweat odorless. Because they don’t rely on irritating baking soda as the only odor-neutralizing ingredient, these deodorants are ideal for individuals with sensitive skin or a baking soda sensitivity.

  37. Megan Payne Avatar
    Megan Payne

    I use Arm & Hammer unscented deodorant and I see that you have listed it contains Triclosan. & synthetic fragrance. I am looking at my deodorant and don’t see this listed. I do see propylene glycol though. Can you check into this? I thought I had looked up every single ingredient on the EWG website and didn’t think it was that bad…

  38. Lindsey Avatar
    Lindsey

    As a formulator, I cannot stress this enough: Vitamin E is NOT a preservative. It is, however, an antioxidant, which will help oils from going rancid, but it will NOT prevent mold, yeast, and fungal growth.

    While I also do not care for parabens, they are necessary in all water-based products, or products that may come in contact with water.

    Why are they necessary?

    Because there is no commercially viable all-natural preservative (aka, a substance that prevents baddies from growing). The normal usage rates for preservatives are between 1-3%. Personally, this is a much better alternative (in my opinion) than potentially slathering mold spores all over my body every time I use some type of lotion.

  39. Michelle Avatar
    Michelle

    Hi! I have been using Earth Science and love it. Are there any worrisome ingredients?
    http://earthsciencenaturals.com/product/244/Deodorant-Liken-Plant-Unscented-2.45-oz..html

  40. Dacia Avatar
    Dacia

    Hi!
    I just wanted to give readers a heads up about the Schmidt’s brand. I was so in love with this deodorant until one day, after about a month of using it, I realized I had a terrible second degree chemical burn on my underarms. I’m still trying to heal after about a month- so just beware if you suspect that you are sensitive to baking soda. Even if you don’t think you are – you can over time still end up with a burn since the baking soda will start to alter the pH of your underarm.
    I’ve just started using a paste of bentonite clay – just the clay with mixed some water to form a paste and this seems to work well on my underarms without the burn of baking soda.
    Just wanted to pass this along so hopefully no one else will have to endure this – ouch!!! Thanks for all the info!

    1. Karen Avatar
      Karen

      The same happened to myself and my husband when using Schmidt’s regular formula. However, I can use any of their sensitive skin formulas. And normally stick with Coconut Pineapple.

  41. Erika Avatar
    Erika

    Hi there!
    I just started using Think sports deodorant line. It works great for me. Have you looked into that one?

  42. Priscilla Avatar

    What about Bo-bedient?
    Have you tried this brand?
    https://bo-bedient.com

  43. Dawn Heinzman Avatar
    Dawn Heinzman

    Hi, Maia.

    I noticed another brand you may not have heard about before called Alaffia. (No worries about that — can’t cover all the brands in one go. Right?) Aside from the reassurance the straight-forward ingredients list brings, I appreciate purchasing a product that is as close as you can get to where I love in Oregon (based in Olympia!), and the scent I chose to buy (bergamot (just patchouly-esque enough to enjoy and not be overkill)) smells wonderful and seems to do the trick all day. They also have coconut, lavender, vetiver, lemongrass, and mandarin ginger scented versions too!

    Their website is here: https://alaffia.com/body-care/deodorant/

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Thanks so much! This def sounds like the good stuff:)

  44. Sarah R Thompson Avatar
    Sarah R Thompson

    I think recently Native changed their label to list “fragrance.” This was after being bought out by Proctor and Gambel. Makes me wonder what else they changed…..

    1. Leslie Avatar
      Leslie

      I noticed the same thing. I thought the Coconut & Vanilla scent was too good to be true, and sure enough, I was disappointed to see “fragrance” listed as an ingredient.

  45. Vaidehi Deo Avatar
    Vaidehi Deo

    I am currently using Meow Meow Tweet’s baking soda free one. (https://meowmeowtweet.com/) That one is also plastic free, cardboard packaging. with stick application. Any particular reason for not including that ?

  46. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    Any thoughts on Earth Mama’s deodorant?

    1. Kim Avatar
      Kim

      Oops, just saw someone just asked! ?

  47. Tina Avatar
    Tina

    Hi Maia! Thanks for doing the dirty work! Your guide has been one of my reference go-to sites for transitioning our household to non-toxic. What are your thoughts on Earth Mama’s unscented deodorant? I know you carry some of their products on your shop.

  48. Shelia Avatar
    Shelia

    Hi Maia, thanks for this great guide. My husband and I have been using lemon juice as a deodorant, and it works unbelievably well!! Only issue is stinging, so we apply a Hawaii nut oil first, then the lemon juice. It’s amazing at eliminating odors. Have you tried this?

  49. Stephanie T Avatar
    Stephanie T

    Thank you for this thorough review. I’ve recently discovered Nfuse deodorant and really like it. I’ve used the Lavender scented option so far. Nfuse contains magnesium.

  50. Teri Byrne Avatar
    Teri Byrne

    I wish I was reminded of the humidity of the Northeast last summer when I went back to Western NY for my 45th class reunion!
    I have been living in the Northwest for 44 years and only use a good deodorant. WoW. I was super wet and very stinky during the entire weekend. A bit embarrassing to say the least.
    Sorry to say, that yes, I probably would have been saved by your suggestion of BAN.

    It’s all a funny story now, but when I read your suggestions, I was transported to last summer’s surpise!
    By the way, I love your research and products and have been sharing your website to Everybody I know :))

    Teri

  51. Alice Avatar
    Alice

    I love the Native deidorant. It works the best, bwtter than any “bad stuff.” I was so discouraged before trying this and thought That I had to use one of the toxic one because I wasn’t ready to sacrifice feeling clean. So glad I found it! Highly recommend

  52. C Avatar
    C

    Ursa Major’s “no- Bs”looks good – correct? Works well for me (might have to reapply on a sweaty day)

    Aloe barbadensis leaf juice*, propanediol, sodium stearate, tapioca starch, saccharomyces ferment, silica, kaolin (clay), glyceryl caprylate, microcrystalline cellulose, glycerin, glyceryl undecylenate, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter (community trade), tocopheryl acetate, cellulose gum, humulus lupulus (hops) extract, royal jelly extract, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel extract, calendula officinalis (marigold) flower extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, panax quinquefolium (ginseng) root extract

  53. Nydia Avatar
    Nydia

    I react to every “natural” deodorant I’ve used (whether it’s the baking soda type like schmidt’s or the roll-on’s like Kiss My Face) but I just recently started using one named Hola (http://holadeodorant.com/) and I really, really love it. No irritation at all and it works!

  54. steph Avatar
    steph

    Hi! I noticed a lot of people have asked about Native. I recently switch from Smidchts to Native and like it a lot better! Please let us know what you think!

  55. Jayne Avatar
    Jayne

    Hi Maia! I was wondering if you would consider doing an update to your deodorant recommendations. I know that many more non-toxic options have come to market since 2016 and was wondering if you found any others that were excellent in terms of ingredients, but also effective.
    Thanks!

  56. Jaclyn Avatar
    Jaclyn

    Why is baking soda a safe chemical to use?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) has no evidence of any kind of toxicity or carcinogenesis.

  57. Jaclyn Avatar
    Jaclyn

    What do you think about Earth to Body ANTI-ODOUR BAR LEMONGRASS? Ingredients: coconut, baking soda, olive oil, hemp oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, Neem Oil, lavender, niaouli, lemongrass, oregano, juniper, manuka oil, lemonseed extract

    http://www.natural.ca/en/anti-odour-bar-lemongrass

    Also, do you know what makes one brand work better than another?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Looks safe!

  58. Aadila Avatar

    Thanks for sharing!!
    keep bringing more and yes the best perfume for women is Coco Chanel Mademoiselle Perfume.

  59. Kathy Brooks Avatar
    Kathy Brooks

    Hi Maia, thank you for all your researching and advise!
    I’m currently using a deodrant by an Australian company called MooGoo. Could you please advise me if the deodrant ingredients would be classed as ‘Good Stuff’, as I’ve past one of these to each of my 3 daughter’s, and with one of them being pregnant, and hoping to breastfeed, I’m concerned that this deodrant would be OK for her to use? The ingredients are: Aqua (Water) Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) Xanthum Gum, (Food Grade Thickener) Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Oil (Aussie Lemon Myrtle) Zea Mays (Corn) Seed Flour, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract.
    Thank you.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Hey! That list looks totally sefe to me;)

  60. Katie Avatar
    Katie

    Which is your favorite non baking soda formula with some sort of fragrance ? Also safe for pregnancy/breastfeeding.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Try the Schmidt’s sensitive line! https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/store/schmidts-sensitive-skin-deodorant/

      I love the Geranium.

  61. Alejandra Avatar
    Alejandra

    What about Kabana Deodorant?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      It’s definitely Good Stuff! Have you tried and do you like it?

      1. Alejandra Avatar
        Alejandra

        Not yet Mia….waiting for your review.
        Also….pleeeease, make a post about DYE hair. Yours is a beautiful blond color, what do you use???

  62. Monique Jackson Avatar

    Hi there, thank you for all the research you do. It’s amazing! I was surprised I didn’t see any deodorants with just sea salts. I use a sea salt spray from Sprouts, and that is the only ingredient. I stunk like crazy the first 3 weeks, and now I don’t even smell I forget to put it on. What are your thoughts?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Sounds awesome! I will look into this!

      1. Maia James Avatar
        Maia James

        I couldn’t find a salt spray by Sprouts. Please provide a link!

  63. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    Any thoughts on. Native deodorant?

    1. Tonya Linderer Avatar
      Tonya Linderer

      I would love to know this also, lots of people asking about it.

  64. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    Have you tried Native bramd deodorant?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes, we’ve reviewed Native. It’s listed above under Good Stuff.

  65. Bard Avatar
    Bard

    A previous commenter mentioned Jungleman Naturals brand of deodorants. I’ve tried out the unscented and mint versions and wonder about your opinion of them from a good stuff / bad stuff perspective.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I’ve not heard of this brand, but will be sure to include when we update this guide!

    2. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Update: Jungleman looks super safe! Good Stuff for sure.

  66. Sheri Avatar
    Sheri

    I highly recommend Native. My first day using it, I attended an unplanned outdoor luncheon that was hot and humid. (93 degrees) It worked very well and I did not smell at all. I am very satisfied.

  67. Christine Avatar
    Christine

    Primarily Pure deodorant is AWESOME! They have a regular one and sensitive skin version with less baking soda. I find that it works reallly well. I tried lemongrass and lavender. Im typically drawn to Lavender scents but in this case I much prefered the lemongrass! Love it!

  68. Abisola Avatar
    Abisola

    Hi! I was on the EWG website and noticed that they had a lot of warnings concerning many of the ingredients in Lafes. Are you aware of this?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      EWG raises a lot of concerns over clove oil, but Lafe’s has removed that ingredient.

  69. Lovelle Avatar
    Lovelle

    Hello, Maia!

    I was wondering if the Schmidt’s Bergamot and Lime is good to use while pregnant? I think I saw that you said it was good during breastfeeding, and I wanted to know your thoughts on the product during pregnancy.

    Ever thanks!

  70. Suzannah Raff Avatar
    Suzannah Raff

    There’s a new Charcoal Deodorant on the market, Cleo&Coco http://www.cleoandcoco.com and it works 100%. People layer it with its Detox Dust, a non-talc healthy dusting powder that also has activated charcoal and bentonite clay, arrowroot and essential oils and it absorbs any additional moisture. Keeps you 100% odor free and dry.

    1. Suzanne Weaver-Goss Avatar
      Suzanne Weaver-Goss

      Hi Suzannah, Thanks we will check it out.

      Regards,

      Suzanne

  71. Megan Avatar
    Megan

    I have tried many, many natural deodorants, with zero luck. Then I tried Native deodorant. WOW! Have you tried it? I smell great, I am dry, and I feel confident with it! My mom and my husband have also converted!

  72. Lisa Stone Avatar
    Lisa Stone

    I noticed Schmidt’s first ingredient is magnesium hydroxide (in the unscented stick version). Just wanted to make sure that this is a safe ingredient?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes, totally safe!

  73. Jessica Avatar
    Jessica

    What’s your opinion on the lush brand deodorants? That say natural and handmade.
    Thank you!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Lush actually uses synthetic fragrance, so I’d call it Sneaky Stuff.

    2. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Lush actually uses synthetic fragrance, so I’d call it Sneaky Stuff. Sorry!

  74. Erin Avatar
    Erin

    I’ve been using the Purely Great Lavender and it works really well- I love it, thanks for the recommendation! I’m wondering if it is safe to continue using during pregnancy?

  75. Morgan Avatar
    Morgan

    As much as I love the idea of natural deodorant, none of them actually make a difference for me. Especially during the summer months, my sweat is out of control. I’ve always had issues with over-sweating my entire life. A few months ago I read an article about different deodorants and junglejuice was listed on there. I was hesitant to stray away from the norm but I knew I needed a deodorant with an extra kick to it. I’ll tell you this stuff is amazing. It stays on even after my outdoor workouts in the summer heat! Now I can work all day and then run to happy hour with the girls without feeling self-conscious the entire time. It’s worth a look into for sure: https://www.junglemannaturals.com

  76. Ami Avatar
    Ami

    What about Burt’s Bees?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Burt’s Bees in general is either Sneaky Stuff or Okay Stuff.

  77. Caroline Avatar
    Caroline

    I have been using the EO lavender spray deodorant for several months now (after reading about it here). It has been working great! But every morning when I put it on I feel vaguely worried about the cloud of strongly scented droplets that hang in the air after applying it and I breathe it in. I try my best to hold my breath while spraying and for a few seconds after. Do you know if there are risks to breathing this in? I want to love this deodorant but I’m feeling worried. Thanks!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I really wouldn’t worry about this, but of course there are many wonderful non-spray options if you are:).

  78. Lauren Avatar
    Lauren

    Hi there. I was wondering about Mamasuds deodorant. Safe? Effective? Thanks 🙂

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Safe, yes. Not sure about effectiveness as I haven’t tried.

    2. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Definitely safe, not sure about effectiveness.

  79. Mat Avatar
    Mat

    Hi Maia

    Found mention of Earth Conscious on another site. Are you familiar with it and would you consider it The Good stuff?

    Thanks
    Mat

  80. LauraG Avatar
    LauraG

    Native deodorant is awesome! I have a strong body order, and this stuff works for me throughout the entire day, I recommend it! Their ingredients are listed on their website, they’re supposed to be
    natural and good on the skin. The only thing I don’t like about it is that it does leave white marks
    on my clothing, but other than that it’s great!

  81. rebekah Avatar
    rebekah

    I can’t believe someone hated on Green Tidings! It’s the only natural deo that works for me when I’m pregnant (Schmidts turns my pits black) when all of the other deoderants just leave me stinky

    Green Tidings is PERFECT and isn’t any messier than any other stick deo…. theres nothing messy about it it’s a bar…

  82. Jennifer Avatar
    Jennifer

    I used your guide to purchase Schmidt’s from my local Sprouts for my son and myself. After having my fourth baby 8 months ago, my body rebelled and I STUNK. I had switched to the Honest sprays after hearing good things from my neighbor. Did not work for me. But Schmidt’s is amazing. I use the unscented as I’m nursing and not confident enough about the safety of EO’s, and I don’t stink anymore (honestly I think the scents don’t work with my body chemistry.) I went back and bought 6 more sticks since they were b1g1 🙂
    Thanks for helping me find a safe deodorant that WORKS!

  83. Carin Avatar

    Hi Maia,
    Have you tried the Green Beaver deodorants? It works well, but I am concerned about one ingredient called, polyglyceryl-10 laurate.

  84. Katie Avatar
    Katie

    Hi! I was just curious if you have looked into any of the Doterra products. They are making Deoderent, Shampoo, Conditioner, and a bunch of facial products that they deem safe. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

  85. Madison Avatar
    Madison

    I’ve been using native for a few months now and their ingredient list seems okay to me. Any thoughts on Native?

  86. Melissa Avatar
    Melissa

    I noticed you have the Green Beaver Natural Deodorant as sneaky stuff.

    Have you looked at their new and improved formula?

    Green Beaver Natural Deodorant

    Ingredients: Propanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Glycerin, Sodium Stearate,
    Sodium Caproyl/Lauroyl Lactyl Lactate, Triethyl Citrate, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Ledum Groenlandicum (Labrador Tea) Water*, Cymbopogon Martinii (Palmarosa) Oil*, Cananga Odorata (Ylang-ylang) Oil*, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Laurate, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Water*

    *Ingredients from organic farming
    100% natural
    29% BIO

    And the Green Beaver Deodorant Spray

    Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Aqua/Water/Eau, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sodium Caproyl/Lauroyl Lactyl Lactate, Triethyl Citrate, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Ledum Groenlandicum (Labrador Tea) Water*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil* Citrus Limonum (Lemon) Oil*, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Xanthan Gum, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Water*

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Thanks for bringing this to my attention! It definitely looks like they’ve improved their formula. 

  87. Nida Avatar
    Nida

    Hi, what are you thoughts on Herban Cowboy brand? They have a couple of different scents. Here are the ingredients for the “Blossom” one:

    Propanediol, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, aqua, glycerin, sodium stearate, ethylhexylglycerin, oryza sativa (rice) starch, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, carum petroselinum (parsley) extract, salvia officinalis (sage) leaf extract, allantoin, bisabolol, zinc ricinoleate, mineral salts (potassium alum), hydroxyethylcellulose, fragrance.
    Proprietary Essential Oil Blend (No Phthalates) / No Aluminum Chlorohydrate / 100% Vegan

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      This ingredient list looks fine to me!

      1. Steph Avatar
        Steph

        It does? I thought potassium alum was a problem?

        1. Maia James Avatar
          Maia James

          oh my gosh, you’re right! I totally missed that when reading it quickly. Thanks for your vigilance!

  88. Paul Guerrero Avatar
    Paul Guerrero

    Please disregard this post

  89. Paul Guerrero Avatar
    Paul Guerrero

    Hello, what are your thoughts on Nature’s Gate Herbal Blend deodorant?

    1. Paul Guerrero Avatar
      Paul Guerrero

      I do not see any mention of propylene glycol in the ingredient list. What do you think? Thank you in advance.

    2. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I don’t love Nature’s Gate because they use synthetic fragrances.

  90. Brooke Avatar
    Brooke

    You should look into Bubble and bee organic products. I would love your thoughts on them. http://www.bubbleandbee.com
    I use their Lavendar Vanilla Pit Putty stick and don’t sweat or need to reapply like I used to. Ingredients: Organic arrowroot powder, organic coconut oil, aluminum-free baking soda, organic lavender essential oil, organic vanilla extract. That’s it! No “Bad” Stuff!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes, Bubble and Bee is definitely Good Stuff:).

  91. Rick Peskett Avatar
    Rick Peskett

    Hi,
    Thanks for the great article. None of the “buy from Amazon” buttons worked, on 12/22/16.

    Thanks

  92. Sandra Avatar
    Sandra

    The reason I ask is because some people claim that essential oils shouldn’t be used in the first trimester. Based on your research, does this hold true?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Not really. I haven’t found any compelling evidence that small amounts of essential oils would pose a risk. If you’re worried, you could do one of the formulas without essential oils, like this: http://amzn.to/2hJo5IN 

  93. Sandra Avatar
    Sandra

    Is soapawalla or pit paste safe for pregnancy? If not do you recommend one that is?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes both are safe (and I love Soapwalla!).

  94. Chantelle Avatar
    Chantelle

    I recently switched to EO Organic Deodorant in Tea Tree after reading this article. And so far it has been the BEST natural Deodorant for me. I was using another natural one before for over a year and it didn’t do well with keeping me from sweating. The EO Organic has been heavenly and smells amazing.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      so glad that this one has been so great for you!

  95. SUNNY LA Avatar
    SUNNY LA

    Great list!
    For the lavanila I’m concerned that it has both carrageenan and propandeiol?! There is a lot of literature regarding carrageenan that makes me thing it isn’t safe. Is there a version thats safe I don’t know about?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Not really, and while I am not AS worried about carragenan in skincare as I am in food, I don’t consider it Good Stuff. But I don’t see it on the Lavanila label…where are you seeing it?

  96. Sonia D Avatar
    Sonia D

    Sierra sage now makes a deodorant. I’ve been using it and still prefer soapwalla. The ingredients are pretty legit though!

  97. Melissa Avatar
    Melissa

    Check out the brand Native! It is local to SF and seems safe and has cute packaging! It is pricey, though.

  98. CherAshley Avatar
    CherAshley

    I just switched from secret to schmidts deodorant stick in bergamot + lime yesterday and it’s burning! do you think it’s because my underarms are “detoxing” or maybe my skin is more sensitive than I thought?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Hi there-I actually don’t totally buy into the whole “detoxing” theory. Did you just shave before applying? I would give it a few days but certainly discontinue if it continues to be painful.

  99. Brooke Murphy Avatar
    Brooke Murphy

    I am breastfeeding and looking into safe stick deodorant. I have heard good things about Native brand but didn’t know if it’s good stuff… Here’s the ingredient list from their website –
    We use arrowroot powder, baking soda, coconut oil, shea butter, caprylic/capric triglyceride (which is a fancy way of saying fractionated coconut oil), beeswax, polyglycerol-3 beeswax (which is a fancy way of saying cera bellina wax), tocopherol (which is a fancy way of saying Vitamin E), and acidophilus (which is a natural bacteria found in your body already). Our scented deodorants include essential oils. Lavender & Rose is made with Lavender Oil and Geranium Oil. Fresh & Clean is made with Eucalyptus Oil and Spearmint Oil.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Sounds like Good Stuff:)

  100. Lina Avatar
    Lina

    I currently use Tom’s, and am thinking of switching to local brand called Ursa Major. It’s on the pricier side, but would love to hear what you think.

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Thanks for putting this brand on my radar! I’m not familiar with them, but will check it out!

  101. Cheryl Avatar
    Cheryl

    Hi! I love reading everything on here. Do you recommend Green Beaver?

    1. Cheryl Avatar
      Cheryl

      Sorry! I have so many of your tabs up, I commented on the wrong one haha! Back to the toothpaste tab 🙂

  102. Claudia Avatar
    Claudia

    Purelygreat is amazing! I used to use the Lafes stick which was good, but while I was sweating I could smell myself, and the mornings, before my shower, was horrendous. But, from day one of using Purelygreat I haven’t smelled bad. Even in the morning! I could go a couple days without showering and my armpits wouldn’t give it away. Purely great stuff!

  103. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    Hey! Have you ever tried or what is your opinion on Nubain soaps and deodorants? Thanks!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I have a friend who swears by Nubian shampoo! Overall, I think this brand is safe (not all natural, though).

  104. Sarah Avatar
    Sarah

    I am considering Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Boys Natural Deodorant for my ten year old son. Is this a safe choice for my son. I am not sure if it is phthalate free. What are some of the kid friendly deodorants?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Odds are, this has phthalates, among other concerning ingredients. Any of the options in the Safe Deodorant Guide would be safe for him–in particular, my husband likes the smell of this one (less traditionally “feminine”): https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/store/lafes-natural-deodorant-twist-stick/ in the Active scent.

  105. Jana Avatar
    Jana

    I have been a devoted Dove brand consumer for some years now. I have used only Dove deodorant for more then 10 years now. Thoughts on their deoderant/antiperspirants or other products?

    I am so happy o found your site (only through a google search). This is my go-to place to decide what i am buying for my family.

    I love you for being so obviously dedicated to informing us of your findings. Thank you!!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Sorry to say, but in my opinion, Dove is not Good Stuff.

  106. Kayla Avatar
    Kayla

    I think it’s worth the mention that corn starch shouldn’t used by those sensitive to yeast infections, and some EO’s are best avoided as a regular use produce when hormone sensitive (i.e. most prevalent for women: lavender).

  107. Morgan Robbins Avatar
    Morgan Robbins

    Have you ever looked into Native brand?

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I haven’t, but I will!

      1. Christine Avatar
        Christine

        I’m curious about the brand Native also!

        1. Katie Avatar
          Katie

          My sister and I have both switched over to Native deodorant – huge fan of their products now!

      2. Sasha Avatar
        Sasha

        Have you looked into Native yet? I’m curious about them vd Schmidt’s?

      3. Abby Shetler Avatar
        Abby Shetler

        Yes, you must try. I started using it the beginning of July. I love it. I have not been using it long enough to know if it is effecting my clothing ( I don’t think it is). I also try not to use it every day just to give my body a little rest. It does tell you to swipe once or twice and to rub in any excess. I do this and have (in the past) had the aversion to getting gunky deodorant on my fingers, but with Native being all natural, I just rub it into my hands and continue on with my morning. I can not wait to see your review. Thank you for checking it out.

      4. Tonya Linderer Avatar
        Tonya Linderer

        I’m also interested in learning if the Native brand deodorant is good.
        Have you researched this yet?

        1. Julie Stewart Avatar
          Julie Stewart

          I am also interested in your assessment of Native. I used Routine a few times, and then my friend, who was also using it, got cysts and freaked out. So, I won’t use that anymore… Native seems good, but now I’m honestly trying to figure out if I should just go native and not use anything… Here’s what their website says:

          We use caprylic/capric triglyceride (which is a fancy way of saying fractionated coconut oil), arrowroot powder, stearyl alcohol, baking soda, shea butter, coconut oil, hydrogenated castor oil, polyglycerol-3 beeswax (which is a fancy way of saying cera bellina wax), jojoba esters, tocopherol (which is a fancy way of saying Vitamin E), L. acidophilus (which is a natural bacteria found in your body already), maltodextrin, glyceryl caprylate, and glyceryl undecylenate. Our scented deodorants include oils. Due to FDA recommendations, we use the term “fragrance” to refer to these oils.

          1. Maia James Avatar
            Maia James

            We’ve now reviewed Native–see above!

  108. Ferry Avatar
    Ferry

    What brand (s) do you recommend for a breastfeeding mom? I heard that some essential oils and natural ingredients are not compatible with breastfeeding. Thanks

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I personally don’t worry about the small amounts of essential oils in any of the recommended brands (and I’m breastfeeding, too). But, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to go with something with an extra short list of ingredients, like this: http://amzn.to/2aMpYUH

    2. Amy Avatar
      Amy

      I was worried about this as well since I really like sage and it seems to be a bad choice for breastfeeding moms (it has been known to reduce milk supply when taken orally).

      If you’re totally freaked out about ruining a perfectly good milk supply there’s a list here of safe and not-so-safe oils http://www.thehippyhomemaker.com/using-essential-oils-safely-for-pregnant-nursing-mamas/

      But I agree, that the small amounts may not be a problem (I’ve accidentally found some of these oils in my products, and nothing has affected my milk supply).

  109. Kaye Avatar
    Kaye

    What are your thoughts on Soapme With Nature Deodorants? Thank you!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I don’t know that brand–will check it out!

      1. Kaye Avatar
        Kaye

        Hi Maia, I am breastfeeding and have been using their unscented version that has these ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil,Arrowroot Powder,Baking Soda,Raw Unrefined Shea Butter,Raw Beeswax.
        Do you think any of those ingredients are of concern for the milkl?
        Thank you for your responses!

        1. Maia James Avatar
          Maia James

          Nope, this looks like an entirely safe list of ingredients.

  110. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    What are your thoughts on “DeodoMom”? I used it during my first pregnancy and have started using it again for my second. Thanks!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Don’t know that brand, but will add to our research list!

  111. Brie Avatar
    Brie

    What are your thoughts on Burts Bees deodorants? Thank you

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      They are fine (don’t have organic ingredients, but nothing alarming).

  112. Pat Avatar
    Pat

    Thoughts on the brand “Every Man Jack” fresh scent. The brand itself gets good ratings on EWG, I’m wondering what you happen to think of it. Thanks!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      I actually don’t love this brand. They use sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, and a bunch of other chemicals on my Bad Stuff list.

      1. Pat Avatar
        Pat

        So what is mans brand that is safe? Herbal cowboy? I don’t want to walk around smelling like powder or flowers.

        1. Pat Avatar
          Pat

          Also, can you recommend mens body wash and shampoo along with a deodorant? My wife uses Acure which doesn’t smell too feminine for me but I was hoping you could maybe recommend some mens? I really like how Every Man Jack smells and works but if they’re sneaky I don’t want to use them. My issue with deodorants is I sweat a lot and I have BO, none of the natural deos I’ve tried work at all. (Lafes, Toms)

        2. Maia James Avatar
          Maia James

          My husband uses the Active scent of this one; it smells manly:). https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/store/lafes-natural-deodorant-twist-stick/

  113. Maci Avatar
    Maci

    Please Do NOT recommend, I implore you, Primal pit paste to any of your readers. While not all, so many people are reactive to their baking soda essential combination After about a month, itching and darkening of the underarm skin appears. The company has neither the decency to warn you this may happen nor the integrity to refund you. These side effects happen so frequently (see reviews in Amazon w/pics -also 5 out of 6 of my family members experienced them) that warrants them being transparent with this fact and offering at that time ways to troubleshoot. Rather, they, in my opinion, act oblivious when you inform, send out a pre-written script of how to possibly deal with it(doesn’t work) along with another script telling you why they can not refund you. It hurts me that they don’t honor their customers mitre. Note they will offer you a different scent in their line but the scent is not the problem. Stay away from primal pit paste.

    1. Janelle Avatar
      Janelle

      They DO warn consumers about this (I did extensive research before buying) and the darkness goes away, if that’s how your skin reacts, if you discontinue use. Suggesting she not recommend them doesn’t make sense. You could say that about any product! Not every product works the same way for everybody. In fact, Primal’s sage scented deodorant doesn’t work force, but the lavender and creamsicle Keep me odor free. I’m not going to suggest she not recommend them to people just because they didn’t work for ME. People, make your own choices. There are so many good stuff products you should try it out and see what works best for YOU! Good luck!

      1. Melissa M Avatar
        Melissa M

        I completely agree with everything you said. It’s absolutely ridiculous to tell someone not to recommend a product because it didn’t work for them or caused irritation. If they find out that this product is actually dangerous then by all means post away but until then it’s not fair to scare other consumers with your “opinions and experiences”. I’ve personally seen their warnings on their site about discoloration and baking soda sensitivities. I for one tried their lavender scented and I love it. Been using for about a year now w no issues.

    2. Renee Avatar
      Renee

      My husband and I LOVE Primal Pit Paste and have been using it for a few years now without any problems. The only thing that has happened is that our shirts get stained from the coconut oil. Other than that, my husband is a fire fighter and sweats and gets super smelly from wearing his fire gear, and it keeps him stink free, even the unscented. I’m not a particularly smelly person, only after I had my son. I became stinky from the hormones, but the PPP kept that stink away. Like Janelle said, I wouldn’t tell her not to recommend it, because it is a great product. Everyone’s body chemistry is different.

  114. Allison Avatar
    Allison

    Just wondering if you’ve ever reviewed any Poofy Organics products? I definitely think they are good stuff!

    1. Maia James Avatar
      Maia James

      Yes, see above under Good Stuff!

      1. Corrie Avatar
        Corrie

        What about Dessert Essence? I buy their Tropical Breeze deodorant at Whole Foods and would love to know how you would rate that brand!

    2. RACHEL Avatar
      RACHEL

      Have you looked into Earth Mama deodorant?

    3. David Avatar
      David

      My favorite is Ussal natural deodorant. I think the pH is the only natural deodorant balanced. And I don’t really prefer cream deodorant. I prefer roll-on or Stik deodorants.

    4. Matus Avatar

      If you want to change your actual deodorant, because it´s not long lasting, makes your sweat smell even worse, ruins your clothes, causes a large red rash or its fine as long as you don’t do much of physical activity. Then deodorant with Aloe vera gel and BIO Cotton extract will provide you an excellent replacement.
      Take a look what other women spoke about it.
      https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0179QPGVK?ref=myi_title_dp